"You Can't Handle the Truth"

In the movie, “A Few Good Men,” Jack Nicholson’s character yelled out the title in response to being pushed to a breaking point during a trial.

I understand how that feels…

OK, folks, I know that the old proverb says to “turn the other cheek,” but mine are tired of taking the heat because some can’t handle my right to express myself.

Typically, I ignore such people. After all, that is why the “delete” button was installed in this system. But, in this case, I feel the need to defend myself on a few key points.

Then I will leave the rest up to the readers of my blog—those who actually appreciate what I do here.

Earlier today, I came across a blog written by “FUBB,” which—I was told by the author—is an acronym. Here is what he had to say:

Concerned Citizen commented on your article "Standing Firm on Shaky Ground" in Buzz Beeler's Blog:

I'll fill out the F U part if you still don't get it...moron

Concerned Citizen commented on your article "Standing Firm on Shaky Ground" in Buzz Beeler's Blog:

So Beeler you really are a bigger idiot than I thought....FUBB stands for F U Buzz Beeler... 36 years as a cop huh?

Concerned Citizen commented on your article "Fighting for Our Vets" in Buzz Beeler's Blog:

Hey Cap anytime

(Blogger’s note: The term “cap” can refer to shooting someone.)

Now, just for the record, the “FUBB” blog is rife with inaccurate information, and appears to be a desperate attempt by what I often refer to as “the political machine” to discredit me and my public discourse, since what I say just might erode their power base.

I receive many comments like this on my blog and, as I eluded to before, I delete them. Simply put, this is my blog, and I will not allow trolls to clog up the comments in order to keep the public from voicing their legitimate concerns.

I can only surmise the source of this material, since a pseudonym is used. A real name would quickly put any comment into perspective regarding who it came from and what that person’s agenda is. 

But since I am the only one willing to blog under his real name, I’ll just surmise what is really going on here. Is it possible that someone representing the political committee of someone running for office would post comments using FUBB as a name?

It is very possible, in my opinion. (And, again, it is my blog.) Politicians become desperate, as we have seen in the battle over in the 6th council district between Cathy Bevins and Jeff Beard.

I have no clue as to who Concerned Citizen is, and can’t be sure what his agenda is. He commented on the blog I wrote about a certain individual candidate, but that may or may not be related. 

However, just to make myself feel better, let me quickly address some of the comments made.

During the incident in question, I admit to running my mouth because I was angry about what I thought was police corruption taking place. The club owner in the incident had been in business for 25 years and never saw the police—except when they wanted free beer for their shift parties or a couple of tables for a bull roast.

That is the truth about my comment regarding “taking care of the police.” 

Now, if that was so deceitful, why did both the FOP and the Fire Department go to court on my side to fight my conduct unbecoming?

Unfortunately, we lost and I received a slap on the wrist. It happens.

The upside was that the department changed the rules, effectively stopping the police from indiscriminately shutting down night clubs without a call from the Fire Department.

As for the comment about my suggestion of hiring a good editor and support staff, that was my opinion about what is necessary to be successful in the blogging game. Simply a bit of free advice for one who really wants to write a blog on matters of political concern for the community.

How important is it to have an editor? Well, here is a quote from my editor—a pro with more than 30 years of experience under his belt:

“(FUBB’s) command of the English language is, shall we say, nonexistent.”

I hired an editor to make sure that what I write makes sense and is as grammatically and linguistically correct as possible. Because, in fairness, people don’t want to read pages filled with bad grammar, misspellings, and poor sentence structure. As my editor says, it’s like driving on a road—if there are too many bumps and potholes, you want to stop the car and find a different road.

I also have an attorney look over my blogs to ensure that I avoid anything libelous or slanderous. That, to me, is the sign of a professional—someone who looks to others to ensure that his/her work is the best that it can be.

Another thought on the incident mentioned by FUBB. This happened back in the 80s, which is a very long time ago. Since then, I have worked for the Sun and the News American, along with writing my blog, and have yet to be sued for libel or slander. I think that means that I learned my lesson—“think before you speak.”

One more issue. FUBB claims that “El Captain” is a supporter of mine. I want to state, for the record, that I have no affiliation with anyone who writes vile and filth. That is why many of my columns have no comments, because I will not tolerate such actions. I instead hit the old delete button.

As Forrest Gump said, “That’s all I have to say about that.” 

Election Roundup

I have received enough campaign mailers to build a house of cards. I do not like the wild claims made by some politicians on a variety of subjects.

Let’s start with the Eagle.

Delegate Olszewski Jr. was attributed with the following:

"He stressed that community input should be sought in any development plan, as well as environmental controls, local hiring and the inclusion of green space."

As you already know, this is not the case. The community has been left out of the government center decisions, and Mr. Olszewski refuses to comment on Fort Howard.

Another comment from the Eagle (which could not be accessed) stated this:

Page 20, Column 6, "SCHOOLS: Details being held until after election?" 

Del. John Olszewski, Jr. indicated that he has not seen any plans.

He did note, however, that "anything that is going to happen needs to be done with community input and buy-in."

Councilman John Olszewski, Sr. did not respond to requests for comment by press time.

My Choices

I stand by my earlier choices, which can been seen here.

I stand by Buddy Staigerwald, and found both his and Anna Pearce’s responses to my query honest and transparent, two of the qualities missing in today’s candidates.

The bottom line, for many reasons, is that I cannot support any of the other local candidates, including Joe Dicara, Ron Yeatman, or any member of the “O” team.

There has been too much deception among that group for my tastes.